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Cataract

A cataract is a clouding of the lens in the eye that impairs vision. Cataracts can occur in dogs for various reasons, such as age, heredity, diabetes or injury. In this article you will learn more about the symptoms, causes, diagnosis and treatment of cataracts in dogs.

Symptoms

The most common signs of cataracts in dogs are

  • A bluish-gray or milky coloration of the pupil
  • A reduced glare or altered reflection in the eye
  • Difficulty seeing in the dark or in bright light
  • Frequent blinking or rubbing of the eyes
  • Red or inflamed eye
  • Behavioral changes such as anxiety, insecurity or depression

Causes

Most cataracts in dogs are hereditary and occur more frequently in certain breeds, such as poodles, cocker spaniels, huskies or golden retrievers. These cataracts usually develop at a young to middle age and can affect both eyes.

Other possible causes of cataracts in dogs are

  • Diabetes mellitus: High blood sugar can lead to damage to the lens and cause a cataract. This is one of the most common non-hereditary causes of cataracts in dogs.
  • Trauma : Injury to the eye from an accident, a fight or a foreign body can lead to clouding of the lens.
  • Inflammation : An infection or autoimmune disease can lead to inflammation of the eye and damage to the lens.
  • Age: With increasing age, the lens can lose elasticity and become cloudy. This is called senile or age-related cataract and usually affects older dogs.

Diagnosis

To diagnose a cataract in a dog, a vet will carry out a thorough eye examination. He will look at the cornea, conjunctiva, iris and lens using a special lamp (slit lamp) and a magnifying device (ophthalmoscope). He will also measure visual acuity, intraocular pressure and lacrimation.

To determine the cause of the cataract, the vet may also order blood tests, urinalysis or other tests to rule out or confirm, for example, diabetes, infections or other diseases.

Treatment

The only effective treatment for a cataract in a dog is surgery to remove the clouded lens and replace it with an artificial one. This is called phacoemulsification and is a relatively safe and successful procedure that can restore or improve the dog's vision.

The surgery is performed under general anesthesia and takes about an hour per eye. The vet will make a small incision in the cornea and use an ultrasound device to fragment and aspirate the lens. He will then insert an artificial lens adapted to the size and shape of the eye. The incision is then closed with self-dissolving stitches.

After the operation, the dog must be given eye drops or ointments for a few weeks to prevent infection, inflammation or complications. He will also need to wear a protective collar to prevent him from rubbing or scratching his eyes. The vet will carry out regular follow-up examinations to monitor the healing process.

Not all dogs are suitable for cataract surgery. The vet will consider various factors such as age, health, the type and stage of the cataract and the owner's expectations. The operation is also quite expensive and requires careful aftercare.

If surgery is not possible or desirable, the vet may recommend other options to make the dog's life easier. These include, for example

  • Good eye hygiene: cleaning the eyes regularly with a soft cloth and warm water or a special solution can help prevent irritation or infection.
  • Good lighting : Adjusting the lighting conditions in the house or garden can help the dog to orient itself better and avoid obstacles.
  • Good communication: Talking to the dog, giving clear instructions and praising him for good behavior can give him security and confidence.
  • Good stimulation: Offering toys, treats or other activities that stimulate the dog's senses can be fun and prevent boredom.

A cataract is a serious eye condition that can impair a dog's vision or even lead to blindness. The most common cause is heredity, but there are other factors that can cause a cataract. Diagnosis is made by an eye examination by a vet, who will also discuss the possible treatment options. The only effective treatment is an operation to remove the clouded lens and replace it with an artificial one. However, this is not suitable or available for all dogs. In this case, there are other options to make the dog's life easier and improve its quality of life.

The authors assume that a veterinarian should be consulted if an animal is ill and that medication should only be taken after consultation with a doctor or pharmacist. Only an individual examination can lead to a diagnosis and treatment decision.

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